Kwara state launches measles immunization campaign, distributes vaccines

The Kwara State government has announced the start of the measles and vaccination campaign for children under five for 2023, promising to make sure that the vast majority of the target population is covered. The regular vaccination programme and campaign will both last for seven days.

The deputy governor and head of the state task force on immunisation, Kayode Alabi, stated during the flag-off ceremony in Ilorin that the vaccine has been sent to a number of healthcare facilities across the state's 16 local governments for appropriate administration.

“The government through the State Primary HealthCare Development Agency will do everything within its power to ensure that the vaccines reach every eligible child within the shortest possible period of time.

“I am aware the vaccine has been distributed across all health facilities in the 16 local government areas to administer it to all eligible children. I implore all mothers and caregivers to avail their children of the opportunity of preventing untimely deaths through vaccine-preventable diseases by making them available for routine immunisation outreach”.

Alabi said the campaign represented another significant step in the government's life-saving intervention to lower childhood morbidity and mortality. He pointed out that measles was one of the main causes of illnesses and deaths among children under the age of five.

He praised the agency's leadership and employees for their tenacity and dedication in ensuring that basic healthcare services are accessible throughout Kwara.

“As the chairman of the State Taskforce on Immunisation and PHC, I am proud of your achievements and the feats you have attained in all your immunisation campaigns this year, including coming out as the best in Primary Healthcare Leadership Challenge in the north-central zone.”

Source